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CVE-2026-28684

python-dotenv: Symlink following in set_key allows arbitrary file overwrite via cross-device rename fallback

Published: Apr 20, 2026Updated: Apr 20, 2026 Sources: CVE List NVD
NVD MITRE
6.6CVSS
MEDIUM

python-dotenv reads key-value pairs from a .env file and can set them as environment variables. Prior to version 1.2.2, `set_key()` and `unset_key()` in python-dotenv follow symbolic links when rewriting `.env` files, allowing a local attacker to overwrite arbitrary files via a crafted symlink when a cross-device rename fallback is triggered. Users should upgrade to v.1.2.2 or, as a workaround, apply the patch manually.

EPSS Score
N/A
CISA KEV
Not in KEV
Exploits
No Known Exploits
Remediation
No Fix Available

CVSS Vector Breakdown

AV:LAC:LPR:LUI:RS:UC:NI:HA:H
Exploitability
AV:LAttack Vector
Local
AC:LAttack Complexity
Low
PR:LPrivileges Required
Low
UI:RUser Interaction
Required
Scope
S:UScope
Unchanged
Impact
C:NConfidentiality
None
I:HIntegrity
High
A:HAvailability
High

Weaknesses

CWE-59CWE-61

Affected Products

python-dotenv
theskumar

Attack Graph

Products CVE Techniques Tactics

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Exploitability

No known exploits, KEV entries, or remediation guidance available for this vulnerability yet.

MITRE ATT&CK

2 techniques
Collection
Discovery
View detailed technique mapping

References

https://github.com/theskumar/python-dotenv/security/advisories/GHSA-mf9w-mj56-hr94
github.com
https://github.com/theskumar/python-dotenv/commit/790c5c02991100aa1bf41ee5330aca75edc51311
github.com
https://github.com/theskumar/python-dotenv/releases/tag/v1.2.2
github.com

Timeline

Published
Apr 20, 2026
Last Updated
Apr 20, 2026

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